The Riccarton based father and son team have eyes for the Grant Plumbing Levin Classic (1600m) on January 13 and the Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) on March 17.
The filly they have the highest hopes for is Savvy Coup, who at Awapuni on
Saturday produced a dynamic performance to win the Gr.3 Lawnmaster Eulogy
Stakes (1500m).The daughter of Savabeel lowered the colours of the favourite Dijon Bleu, who had previously finished runner-up in the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m).
"We've always had confidence in the filly, very happy with the result," Matthew Pitman said.
Savvy Coup was impressive when winning twice during the New Zealand Cup carnival and seven days ago she ran second over 1400m at Trentham. She was handled by Chris Johnson on all three occasions, but he had commitments on Saturday at Te Rapa.
"I was disappointed Chris wasn't on, we've had a great association, but I was so pleased to get Michael McNab," Michael Pitman said. "I consider him the best rider here today."
Savvy Coup settled back off midfield and when Dijon Bleu made her move, McNab tracked her into the race and they finished too well in the closing 200m.
"I said to Matt at the 600m mark that the filly only needs a bit of luck, she was travelling that well," Pitman said.
Waikato Stud will offer a brother (Lot 190) to Savvy Coup at the Book 1 sale at Karaka next month. – NZ Racing Desk.
